What is it really like to access overnight respite care for the first time?

In this heartfelt episode of Voices in DREAM, we sit down with Sharon to hear her and her mother’s powerful story of experiencing overnight respite care for the very first time.

Sharon’s mum, who was living with dementia, faced uncertainty and vulnerability during this major transition. Sharon shares her emotional journey, the fears, hopes, and lessons she and her mum both encountered.

Tune in to explore:

· The emotional impact of accessing respite for the first time

· Sharon’s reflections on her mum’s experience and how care teams responded

· What made a difference and what could’ve been better

· Practical ways to support people living with dementia and their families during their first respite stay

· How we can create smoother, more supportive transitions into respite care

Whether you’re a caregiver, aged care worker, or someone supporting a loved one with dementia, this episode offers invaluable insights into the real-life experience of respite and how we can do better.

Did you know that successful respite care for people living with dementia relies just as much on how we support the carers and support workers as it does on the care itself? Empowered, well-informed carers can make all the difference in creating a safe, calm, and enriching respite experience.

In this episode of Voices in DREAM, we explore practical, person-centred strategies for both support workers and carers who are providing respite care for individuals living with dementia. Whether it’s preparing for a respite stay or responding to changes in behaviour, this episode offers helpful tips grounded in real-life care scenarios.

Tune in to learn about:

· How to prepare for a dementia respite stay

· Communication strategies that promote trust and comfort

· Supporting carers during and after respite care

· Managing changes in routine and behaviours with empathy

· Promoting team-based care between families and support staff

Whether you’re a family, carer, a community support worker, or part of an aged care team, this episode is filled with practical advice to help you deliver more successful and compassionate respite care.

Did you know that strong teamwork in aged care settings can lead to better outcomes for people living with dementia, especially during short-term respite stays? When staff support one another, care becomes more consistent, compassionate, and person-centred.

In this episode of Voices in DREAM we’re joined by Emmanuel, an experienced aged care worker who shares practical strategies for building a supportive workplace culture. Together, we explore how collaboration, open communication, and simple daily actions between staff can make a powerful difference in the lives of residents and in the wellbeing of care teams.

Tune in to learn about:

• The importance of workplace culture in dementia care
• How to communicate effectively across shifts and roles
• Building trust and psychological safety among team members
• Managing stress and preventing burnout together
• Daily habits that help teams feel more connected and capable

If you work in residential aged care or support people living with dementia during respite stays, this episode is full of practical insights to help your team deliver the best care together.